By Maile Matsimela
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has unveiled a new tractor fleet designed to combat poverty and food insecurity across the province. According to the department, this initiative marks a significant step in revolutionising the department’s agricultural mechanisation programme, with the procurement of 24 tractors and 100 vehicles at a cost of R78 510 835.80 million.
During the official handover ceremony in Cedara, Hilton, KZN Premier Thami Ntuli expressed his vision for the province: “I have a vision of the province of KwaZulu-Natal being turned green with vegetables and crops.” He emphasised the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development must prioritise farmers’ interests by providing necessary support to transform this vision into reality.
“With this investment of 100 vehicles and a 24-tractor fleet, our objective is to address food insecurity and respond to the needs of our farming communities,” Premier Ntuli stated. “As the provincial leadership under the Government of National Unity, we stabilised the government last year, and we pledge to make this a year of action, which is precisely what this department is accomplishing.” The Premier also called for the procurement of additional tractors.
MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa highlighted the new tractors will enhance agricultural activities and help overcome challenges facing the sector. “This is in response to the dire needs of the farming communities struggling to access adequate resources. The tractor fleet will enable the department to support rural communities who do not have sufficient means to grow their agricultural efforts from subsistence farming to a sustainable agricultural enterprise,” she said, adding more tractors would be procured for farmers and cooperatives.
Following a needs assessment, priority will be given to districts struggling with food insecurity, specifically Zululand, uMzinyathi, King Cetshwayo and uMkhanyakude. The department plans to provide subsistence farmers with comprehensive support for up to four years, including mechanisation services and production inputs.
Smallholder farmers will receive mechanisation services and fertilisers, with support transitioning to minimum tillage in subsequent years as part of an exit strategy. Farmers in this category must demonstrate commitment to reinvesting their income into their businesses.
To ensure proper use of the tractors, an inventory system has been developed. Agricultural advisors at local offices will work with district and head offices to record, verify and report on tractor performance activities weekly.
The department acknowledges the risk of vehicle theft and has equipped tractors with trackers. Cooperation with traditional leaders and communities has been established, as tractors will be stored in local vicinities.
The hundred new vehicles will bolster the department’s declining fleet, which has suffered losses due to theft, hijacking and accidents. The department says all vehicles have been registered, licensed and now display the new GBB number plates.
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